Lisa Michelle: Fine Construction, Attention to Detail
Before Lisa Felsenthal studied fashion design at the Otis College of Art and Design, she studied sculpture, painting and photography. As a former student of detail-oriented disciplines, Felsenthal is a stickler for fine construction in her line, Lisa Michelle.
For Fall 2008, Felsenthal balances the richness of novelty fabrics with simple silhouettes. A belted dress coat stands out in a metallic silk/acetate jacquard with a circular pattern. Blackand- white houndstooth gives graphic interest to a collarless cropped jacket. Other pieces are piled with details. For example, a black cotton dress has a trumpet skirt, pleats converging on the V-neck, polka-dot ribbons adorning the pockets and a belt. But in a subtle black cotton fabric, the overall look is clean. Every piece in the line is finished neatly with lining, charmeuse piping or blind stitches.
“I try to use that artistic flair in the details while focusing on silhouettes that are still flattering on the body and something that I would feel comfortable and happy about wearing. Something that wouldn’t overpower the wearer, but the subtle details kind of make it [special],” Felsenthal said.
Felsenthal earned her stripes interning at artisticdriven brands such as Michelle Mason and JeremyScott while attending Otis. Before launching Lisa Michelle’s debut Spring 2008 collection, she worked as an assistant designer at Rozae Nichols for the ACommon Thread line and then at Monique Lhuillier. For her line, Lisa Michelle, she considers her overall experience. “I feel like this is something in the middle, something beautiful you can wear during the day,” Felsenthal said.
Wholesale price points average $90 for a top, $150 for dresses and $350 to $375 for jackets. For more information, call the Society Showroom, located in suite 516 of the Cooper Design Space, at (213) 489-0911. —Rhea Cortado
